Grammy-winning Singer and Actor

Justin Timberlake | Biography

Singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and dancer

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 24, 2025

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Who is Justin Timberlake?

Justin Timberlake is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer, renowned for his contributions to pop music and film. Born on January 31, 1981, in Memphis, Tennessee, Timberlake first gained fame as a member of the iconic boy band "NSYNC, which became a household name in the late 1990s and early 2000s. With chart-topping hits like "Bye Bye Bye" and "It’s Gonna Be Me," the group solidified Timberlake’s status as a teen heartthrob. Following the band’s hiatus in 2002, he embarked on a successful solo career, showcasing his talents with albums such as "Justified" and "FutureSex/LoveSounds, earning several Grammy Awards along the way.

In addition to his musical career, Timberlake has made a significant impact in the film industry. He has acted in various roles, including notable performances in "The Social Network", "Friends with Benefits", and the voice of Branch in the animated "Trolls" franchise. Timberlake’s versatility as a performer is complemented by his comedic skills, showcased during his frequent appearances on "Saturday Night Live", where he earned two Emmy Awards. Timberlake is married to actress Jessica Biel, with whom he has two children, Silas and Phineas, and his journey from a boy band star to a multifaceted entertainer continues to inspire fans worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Justin Randall Timberlake was born on January 31, 1981, in Memphis, Tennessee, to parents Randall “Randy” Timberlake and Lynn Bomer. His childhood was marked by a musical upbringing, contributing to his eventual rise as a global superstar. Justin's parents divorced when he was just four years old, but the family remained close-knit, with both parents remarrying. Timberlake has two half-brothers from his father's side, and he has even paid tribute to a half-sister who passed away shortly after birth through the "NSYNC song “My Angel in Heaven.” This profound loss shaped a part of his emotional connection to music.

Raised in a Baptist household, Justin's musical talent was nurtured from a young age as he sang in the church choir. Influenced by a rich musical heritage, he was exposed to various genres, including bluegrass, country, and rock. His grandfather, who once jammed with Elvis Presley, introduced him to legends like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. Additionally, his father exposed him to classic rock bands like the Eagles and Queen, fostering a deep appreciation for music that would later inform his career choices. Timberlake's passion for performing blossomed early, leading him to the Disney-backed variety show, "The All New Mickey Mouse Club", where he began his professional journey as a Mouseketeer alongside future stars like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.

Rise to Fame: Career with "NSYNC"

Justin Timberlake rose to fame as a crucial member of the iconic boy band 'NSYNC, which was formed in 1995. Alongside fellow musicians JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass, Timberlake helped redefine the pop music landscape of the late '90s. "NSYNC's infectious melodies and harmonious vocals quickly garnered a massive fan base. The group's debut single, “I Want You Back,” made waves across Europe and set the stage for their eventual U.S. success with their self-titled debut album. The group's combination of catchy pop tunes and synchronized dance moves earned them the status of teen heartthrobs.

The band's rise to superstardom reached new heights with the release of their sophomore album, "No Strings Attached", in 2000. Featuring the iconic track “Bye Bye Bye,” the album became the best-selling album of the decade. Fans continued to embrace "NSYNC's unique sound and style, solidifying their position in pop culture. Following the release of their third album, "Celebrity", in 2001, the group's popularity soared even further. Despite their hiatus in 2002, "NSYNC left a lasting impact on the music industry, and Timberlake's eventual solo career can be traced back to the success he garnered as part of the beloved pop group. Their memorable hits, combined with public performances and tours, laid the groundwork for Timberlake's evolution into a multifaceted entertainer.

Solo Career: Achievements and Grammy Awards

After achieving enormous success with "NSYNC, Justin Timberlake embarked on a solo career that established him as a leading figure in pop and R&B music. He made a striking entrance in 2002 with his debut album, "Justified", featuring hit singles such as “Cry Me a River” and “Rock Your Body.” The album was a commercial success, selling over 7 million copies worldwide. Timberlake won his first two Grammy Awards in 2004 for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, showcasing his transition from boyband star to a serious solo artist.

Timberlake's subsequent albums, particularly "FutureSex/LoveSounds" and "The 20/20 Experience", further elevated his status, both critically and commercially. "FutureSex/LoveSounds" produced several chart-topping singles, like “SexyBack” and “My Love,” and cemented his reputation as a pop innovator. At the 2013 Grammy Awards, he further showcased his talent with a celebrated performance and won additional Grammys for his work on "The 20/20 Experience", which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Over the course of his solo career, Timberlake has amassed a total of 10 Grammy Awards, exemplifying his unforgettable impact on the music industry.

Recent Controversies and DWI Charges

Justin Timberlake, the multi-talented musician and actor, has recently found himself in the spotlight for less-than-favorable reasons. On June 18, 2024, Timberlake was arrested on Long Island, New York, and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). The Sag Harbor Village Police confirmed that he was pulled over after dining at the American Hotel and cited for running a stop sign and failing to stay in his lane. Although Timberlake was eventually released after an arraignment, this incident has raised eyebrows regarding his behavior amidst his ongoing "Forget Tomorrow World Tour."

The DWI charge comes at a pivotal moment in Timberlake's career, as he is currently promoting his newly released album, "Everything I Thought I Was", which features the song "Selfish." Despite his rough patch with the law, Timberlake remains one of the most recognized names in the music industry. As a former boy band member of "NSYNC and a successful solo artist, his reputation has often been marred by controversies, including a high-profile Super Bowl incident in 2004. However, Timberlake continues to bounce back and is focusing on his music career while navigating the challenges that come with fame.

Personal Life: Married Life with Jessica Biel and Children

Justin Timberlake's personal life has been as high-profile as his illustrious music career. He is married to actress Jessica Biel, whom he began dating in 2007. After navigating an on-and-off relationship, the couple tied the knot in October 2012 during a beautiful ceremony in Puglia, Italy. Their union has been characterized by strong support for each other’s careers and personal endeavors, often appearing together at public events and collaborating on special projects. They have created a warm family atmosphere, raising their children with love and attention amidst their busy professional lives.

Timberlake and Biel are proud parents to two sons, Silas, born in April 2015, and Phineas, who made his entrance into the world in the summer of 2020. The couple has always emphasized the importance of family, and they strive to provide their children with a balanced upbringing that includes both the joys of fame and the values of humility. Timberlake's relationship with Biel has been reinforced by their mutual understanding of the entertainment industry, allowing them to support one another as they navigate the challenges of parenthood while balancing demanding careers in music and acting.

Net Worth and Earning: Estimated at $250 million

Justin Timberlake is a multifaceted American artist known for his contributions to music, acting, and pop culture. Born on January 31, 1981, in Memphis, Tennessee, Timberlake garnered fame as a child star on "The All New Mickey Mouse Club" before becoming a key member of the hugely successful boy band "NSYNC". Following the group's breakup in 2002, he launched a stellar solo career characterized by influential albums such as "Justified" and "FutureSex/LoveSounds", producing hit singles that defined pop music in the 2000s. Timberlake's impactful collaborations with artists like Jay-Z and Madonna further cemented his status as a leading figure in the entertainment industry.

In addition to his music career, Timberlake has made a significant mark in film and television. He has received critical acclaim for roles in films such as "The Social Network", where he played Sean Parker, and voice work in the "Trolls" franchise. Alongside his artistic achievements, Timberlake's wealth is noteworthy, with an estimated net worth of around $250 million. This impressive financial standing stems from his diverse projects, including record sales, concert tours, and acting roles, reflecting his success as one of the entertainment industry's most bankable stars.